Proposed regulatory changes in Oregon would require registration for urgent care (UC) centers operating in the states while also enforcing a number of operational standards. Like the newly minted Massachusetts law, Oregon’s proposal would give the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) discretion to create processes, define fees, and require certain capabilities among UC centers. For example, the proposed regulation includes a requirement that centers must provide clinical summaries and medical notes to patients after their visits. It also requires a list of specific clinical services—such as phlebotomy, sutures, and 12-lead ECG to name a few. A new process would also be created for consumers to file complaints. In addition, the bill prohibits UC centers from using the terms “emergency” or “ER” in their branding. Meanwhile, OHA would be on task to study how incentives might inspire UC centers to accept patients regardless of their ability to pay. If passed, the provisions would become operative on January 1, 2026. According to National UC Realty, there are currently 178 urgent care centers in Oregon as of December 31, 2024, of which 82 are non-hospital affiliated and 96 are hospital-affiliated.
Possible long-term changes: According to Alan A. Ayers, MBA, MAcc, President of Urgent Care Consultants and Senior Editor of JUCM, the capabilities required of UC in Oregon would be the same as the Urgent Care Association certification criteria. “Out of the gate, this would have little practical impact—other than effort in registration—but longer-term it will depend on what regulatory authority the OHA exerts,” says Ayers.